Nottingham Forest star Serge Aurier would like to stay in the Premier League amid talks of a return to play in France with Rennes. The right-back will be out of contract on Trentside this summer.
According to Foot Mercato, Rennes dream of signing Aurier. They could, however, be left disappointed with the player settled in England.
Forest secured their Premier League status at the weekend with a 1-0 win over Arsenal. Now, the club can start to prepare for life next season and a number of players will likely sign in the summer.
Aurier issued a wait-and-see plea when quizzed on his future earlier this season. It did, however, sound as though he’d been keen to pledge his future to Forest if they stayed in the Premier League.
The 30-year-old has been a revelation. He is arguably the best free transfer that the club have ever made and he’s been a mainstay in the team since he arrived back in September.
Aurier has captained the team on one occasion this season. He wore the armband during a 3-1 win over Brighton and helped the team claim a first win in two months, sparking a glorious run of form.
The defender has wowed the City Ground faithful this season. He did, however, only sign a one-year deal and it’s not certain whether an automatic extension was included.
Aurier wants to stay in the Premier League and Forest must act
Hopefully, Forest can strike a deal with Aurier. He’ll be in contention to win the Player of the Year accolade and if he does win the award it’d be thoroughly deserved.
At this stage, Forest will be focused on finishing the season on a high with a win over Crystal Palace at the weekend. After that, however, they must sit down with Aurier and ensure he is kept at the club for next season.
Players like Aurier are worth their weight in gold. Forest aren’t yet considered established and to go and replace Aurier would likely cost the club millions.
Although the Ivorian is now 30, he’s still in fine shape and is more than capable of producing the goods. Forest can’t sit by and let this one slip through their fingers.
Aurier must be the club’s first priority this summer and it’s imperative that he stays at the City Ground.